The long-time controversy over just who is responsible for funding dredging of the Ettalong channel has finally been resolved, with the waterway designated as a “key investment location” under the State Government’s recently created Maritime Infrastructure Delivery Office.
A joint initiative between Transport for NSW, Maritime and the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, the aim of the organisation is to improve the coordination and delivery of coastal and boating infrastructure programs and projects across NSW that support recreational boating, fishing, tourism and a range of other commercial activities.
With Ettalong channel’s listing as a key investment location, dredging it becomes a responsibility of the State Government authority.
Financing dredging of the channel has been a point of contention for years, with stalemates between Council and the State Government over who should foot the bill seeing the waterway closed on several occasions in recent years.
The Palm Beach ferry service was suspended for lengthy periods in both 2018 and 2019 due to dredging delays.
The State Government has previously committed over $1M for three rounds of emergency dredging, as well as $1.225M for Council’s long-term dredging plan.
But dredging in the past was often delayed, with councillors reluctant to fund it, saying responsibility should lie solely with the State Government.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said the channel provides a key navigational entrance to Brisbane Water that is used by recreational and commercial vessels, including the highly popular ferry service.
“History shows us that the channel between Half Tide Rocks and Ettalong Beach needs occasional dredging because of its dynamic nature with shifting sand creating shoals that threaten boating access,” Crouch said.
“We never want to see a repeat of the terrible chain of events in 2018.”
A Council spokesperson confirmed that recent discussions with The Maritime Infrastructure Delivery Office had confirmed ongoing responsibility for dredging the waterway remains with that authority.
“Council does not intend on dedicating any future funding towards dredging programs in this location,” the spokesperson said.
Terry Collins